The oldest Cistercian abbey ever built in Ireland! Located in County Louth, 15km from Drogheda, Mellifont Abbey(An Mhainistir Mhór in Gaelic) was a monument that inspired all subsequent abbeys. A pioneer of its kind, its architecture, though in ruins today, is simply fascinating! Discover Ireland in abbey times with this building that left its mark on Irish religious history.
Mellifont Abbey was built in 1142, following the decision of St. Malachy, Archbishop of Armagh, to establish Ireland’s first Cistercian abbey. The challenge was enormous!
After several years of construction, the Abbey became a benchmark for its incredibly innovative architecture (inspired by continental Europe), as well as for the beauty and finesse of its finely sculpted arches. With such success, the abbey was consecrated in 1157, and became the official headquarters overseeing up to 38 Cistercian monasteries. Its cultural and religious influence extended from 1142 until 1539, when Henry VIII ordered the dissolution of all religious orders that ran counter to his own.
It was in 1690 that William of Orange made Mellifont Abbey his headquarters. His army was camped nearby, preparing to take part in the Battle of the Boyne.
Today, the site is more symbolic than anything else: Mellifont Abbey has failed to stand the test of time and Irish history. The abbey is now in ruins, and there are very few notable remains. But the visit is well worth it!
It all starts at the Visitor Centre, where a guide will introduce you to a beautiful exhibition on the construction methods of religious buildings in the Middle Ages. You’ll discover some pretty clever old techniques, and find out how and by what means Mellifont Abbey was built.
As you pass through the ruins, you’ll recognize some finely crafted Romanesque arches, as well as a large 14th-century hall where the abbey’s members used to meet (known as the “capitular”). Last but not least, a 13th-century washbasin has withstood the rigors of time and is one of the most valuable objects to have survived here.
As for the rest, numerous columns and sections of wall have remained standing, and it’s easy to see the abbey’s architecture despite the ruins. It’s a wonderful visit, immersing you in the heart of religious Ireland in idyllic surroundings!
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daily from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm
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